This one is... a lot! There are references to the Strokes, R.E.M., “alt-right opium,” and punching Nazis. There are also several abrupt interruptions that splice in a choral arrangement of “Noble Experiment” by ’90s indie-rock group Thinking Fellers Local Union 282. How did this one originate?MB: What was the name of the instrumental you sent me, Aaron?
AD: “Everything to Everyone.” [laughs]
MB: That must be what happened—I took it as an invitation. I was walking around this little Danish town north of L.A. that was totally empty and listening to this instrumental on repeat. The music was so addictive. I opened up an email to myself and started writing. The original version is about 10 minutes long and it’s got 17 more stanzas.
How did it get edited down?
MB: It was a good example of our collaborative process with Mike. I told him, “The thing that’s really good about this is its length—its maximalist approach.” And he said, “Totally, I understand.” And two days later, he sent it back with 17 stanzas cut out and that cover of “Noble Experiment” in the middle. It was an example of him listening and understanding what I wanted and then having a better idea.
Do you remember any of the verses he cut?
MB: Yeah, I have them right here. “I’m giving 20s to schizophrenic missing mothers in my neighborhood/Leaning in the door/You’re always asking, ‘Why not ask for more?’” I refer to my Wiccan masseuse, who I also get weed from. Little Caesar’s gets mentioned—I must have been hungry.
― american bradass (BradNelson), Friday, 17 May 2019 14:16 (four years ago) link